REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Taufik Hidayat's name echoed in the arena of Djarum Indonesia Open Super Series Premier 2013. His career video was played before the single badminton player expressed his final farewell.

The 31 years old man decided to hang up his racquet after 25 years dedicated his life to Indonesian badminton. When Hidayat came to the arena, all supporters gave a standing applause. A group of suppporters from the stands used a white shirt that written, We Love Taufik, completed with his photo when he won the gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Hidayat is a national badminton player who have a brilliant achievement to bring Indonesia back to international arena. The legend won six times at Indonesia Open.

In his final farewell this weekend, Hidayat entered into arena wearing a red jacket and a plain white shirt. His eyes were red, as if had cried. Hidayat tanked all people who had supported him.

"It's very emotional for me. Thank you very much for your support during this time," Hidayat said.

One by one, Hidayat expressed his gratitude to Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) that had been home to him. He also thanked to his coach, Mulyo Handoyo who had tranied him for 17 years. Hidayat's parents in-law, Agum Gumelar and Linda Gumelar witnessed Hidayat's last goodbye. Hidayat's wife, Ami Gumelar and their two children also attended the event.

In his last speech, Hidayat gave message to all of his juniors in order to continue their struggle to bring back Indonesia to international badminton. In a symbolic gesture, Hidayat handed his racquet to one of his juniors, Yonathan Suryatama Dasuki, to continue his struggle. Farewell, Taufik Hidayat!

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